According to L’Equipe, as cited by Get French Football News (GFFN), Arsenal are among clubs interested in Mounir Chouiar. The Dijon winger is expected to leave the club after missing the squad in the game against Brest. Arsenal, Leeds United and Wolves have already signalled their intent on securing the services of Chouiar this summer, with the forward likely to cost around €15 million to €20 million.
Who Is Mounir Chouiar?
A product of the RC Lens youth academy, Chouiar moved to Dijon last summer for a fee of €3.5 million. He joined the club in search of making a breakthrough in top-flight football and didn’t disappoint either, featuring in 20 league games.
Chouiar even became a regular fixture in the Dijon starting lineup. While his four goals might not seem too much, it was critical for a Dijon side that finished the campaign as one of Ligue 1’s lowest scorers with just 27 goals.
Nevertheless, Chouiar’s on-field impact was much greater than what his goals tally would suggest. The 21-year-old averaged an impressive 3.5 successful dribbles per game, and his overall tally was only bettered by superstars like Neymar and Jonathan Ikone.
The Frenchman also impressed the onlookers with his ability to drift into a central area of the pitch and have a curling attempt on goal. He averaged two shots on goal per game, which is relatively decent for any Dijon player.
How Does Chouiar Fit In At Arsenal?
Chouiar is one of the most gifted young players in Ligue 1 right now. However, Arsenal might not be the best of destinations for the youngster at the moment.
The Gunners have already strengthened their wide-attacking department with the addition of Willian, who fared incredibly well during his Arsenal debut. Mikel Arteta also has the services of Reiss Nelson, Nicolas Pepe and Bukayo Saka while Gabriel Martinelli is expected to return from his long injury layoff later this season.
It could make it extremely difficult for Chouiar to make a breakthrough into the starting lineup. Even for Arsenal, funding €15 million-€20 million at the moment might not a prudent idea, given the current financial climate.
Besides, the north London giants are in apparent need of at least another midfielder if Matteo Guendouzi leaves the club while they also need a playmaker, especially with Mesut Ozil facing an uncertain future. Hence, Chouiar is not a viable option for the Premier League outfit at the moment.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
